PAGASA

ONSET OF THE NORTHEAST MONSOON

20 October 2023

PRESS RELEASE
DOST-PAGASA S & T Media Service
Quezon City, 20 October 2023

In recent days, strong northeasterly winds have prevailed over Northern Luzon due to the strengthening of the high-pressure system over Siberia. Moreover, gradual cooling of the surface air temperature over the northeastern part of Luzon and increasing mean sea level pressure have been observed. These meteorological patterns indicate the onset of the Northeast Monsoon (Amihan) season in the country.
With these developments, the northeasterly wind flow is expected to become more dominant in the country, bringing cold and dry air. An episode of wind and cold temperature surges may also be expected in the coming months.

Moreover, with the ongoing El Niño, there is an increased likelihood of below-normal rainfall or drier-than-usual conditions, which could bring negative impacts (such as dry spells and droughts) in some areas of the country that will likely be manifested during the season. This may adversely affect the different climate-sensitive sectors such as water resources, agriculture, energy, health, public safety, and other key sectors in the country.

PAGASA will continue to monitor the country's weather and climatic conditions. Meanwhile, the public and all concerned agencies are advised to regularly monitor relevant PAGASA information.

For more information, you may reach us by phone at (02) 8284-0800 local 4801 (Weather Forecasting Section) and 4920/4921 (Climate Monitoring and Prediction Section) or through email at information@pagasa.dost.gov.ph; pagasa.climps@gmail.com.

Original Signed:

NATHANIEL T. SERVANDO, Ph.D.
Officer-in-Charge, PAGASA